AD 76-15-03

76-15-03 BELL: Amendment 39-2675. Applies to Bell Models 206A, 206B, 206A-1, and 206B-1 helicopters, equipped with main rotor blade tension-torsion straps, P/N 206-010-105-3, certificated in all categories.

Compliance required as indicated.

To detect straps with inadequate torsional resistance or stiffness and to remove certain straps possibly made from certain spools of wire from further service, comply with the following.

(a) Within the next 25 hours' time in service after the effective date of this AD, accomplish the following, unless previously accomplished:

(1) Determine the serial number of each strap and remove from service straps having serial numbers 15432 through 15472 in accordance with the pertinent model maintenance manual or an FAA approved equivalent.

(2) Conduct the inspections noted in paragraph II of Bell Helicopter Company Service Bulletin No. 206-76-4, Revision A dated May 11, 1976, or a later approved revision and remove those strapswith unacceptable rotation (inadequate torsional resistance) before further flight.

(b) Prior to installing replacement straps or replacement hub assemblies, determine that paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) of this AD have been accomplished. Install replacement straps in accordance with the pertinent model maintenance manual or an FAA approved equivalent.

(c) The manufacturer's specifications and procedures identified and described in this directive are incorporated herein and made a part hereof pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(1). All persons affected by this directive who have not already received these documents from the manufacturer may obtain copies upon request to the Service Manager, Bell Helicopter Company, P. O. Box 482, Fort Worth, Texas 76101. These documents may also be examined at the Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, FAA, 4400 Blue Mound Road, Fort Worth, Texas, and at FAA Headquarters, 800 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. A historical file on this AD, which includes the incorporated material in full, is maintained by the FAA at its headquarters in Washington, D.C., and at the Southwest Regional Office in Fort Worth, Texas.

This amendment becomes effective July 29, 1976.